Gold Coast gun Matt Rowell is "pretty doubtful" to return this week for the Suns as they prepare for a trip to Darwin to face St Kilda.
Rowell has had a horror run of injuries since claiming the Brownlow Medal last year, tending to a broken finger from the pre-season State of Origin clash before his latest setback with an ankle injury.
"He's probably doubtful," Suns coach Damien Hardwick said.
"We'll probably look to pencil him in against Port Adelaide in a week-and-a-half's time.
"He's a tough lad, but we just want to make sure when we get him back, he's not missing another week after that.
"We'd rather be a little more conservative this week to make sure he's right next week."
He's played four games this season but has struggled to get back to his best.
His replacement, Alex Davies, has been impressive despite his limited game time.
"What we're really happy with is Al Davies has come in and played his role pretty consistently," Hardwick said.
"He plays limited game time, around 60 to 65 per cent, but his output has been quite significant.
"We're really pleased with his performance.
"Every time you do lose a quality player, it gives you a great opportunity to find out what's next, and I thought we took some steps next week."
Hardwick also alluded to the Suns potentially jumping on the AFL's latest trend, which has clubs selecting two genuine ruckmen in the best 23.
St Kilda, Hawthorn and Fremantle have had success with the dual big men, while Collingwood has worked with Darcy Cameron and Oscar Steene.
Hardwick confirmed that Ned Moyle will play against the Suns, but will consider bringing back Jarrod Witts to tackle Rowan Marshall and Tom De Koning after he was managed last week.
